Opportunities for Giving

So you've been working hard and saving money (I'm so PROUD of you!), and perhaps now you have some extras (time, money, goods) that you'd like to share. Here are some great opportunities for you to help out your Austin neighbors. And I thank you in advance!

Family Eldercare
What they need: fans, toiletry items, money, food/retail gift cards

Can you manage an extra $15 purchase to buy a fan for an elderly person this summer? In this run of 100+ degree weather, it's important to remember that many people in our community are without air conditioning. Family Eldercare has already distributed 4,900 fans this summer. Help them reach their goal of 7,000! Both fans and funds are appreciated.

Or maybe you have been taking advantage of freebies and coupons and now have a stash of toothpaste, lotion and shampoo taking over your closet. This is another great way to help out the older folks served by Family Eldercare -- and put your smart savings to work helping others!!

Austin State Hospital
What they need: gently used clothing and shoes, volunteers

The Statesman reported last week that the Austin State Hospital is in "critical need" of gently used clothing and shoes. Cleaning out your closet? Haven't worn something in a year or more? Consider donating your items here.

From the Statesman article: Bring your tax-deductible donations to Community Relations in Building 631, 4110 Guadalupe St., on the hospital campus from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

And check out the community relations page on their site for other volunteer opportunities, such as hosting parties for the patients!

Capital Area Food Bank
What they need: non-perishable food donations, money, volunteers

Did you know that nearly 1 in 5 adults and 1 in 4 children in Texas are hungry? That's unacceptable to me. And you can help.

I am biased, as this is a cause I feel passionate about and an organization to which I donate my time and money. But they are awesome, folks. They serve over 350 partner agencies, supplying them with food and grocery products. Last year alone the CAFB distributed more than 17 MILLION POUNDS of food! They can turn a $5 cash donation into $25 worth of nutritious food.

These are just a few of the ways we can help others. Maybe you have giving opportunities through your church or workplace, or even a neighbor down the street. However you do it, I encourage you to consider helping others with the abundance your money-saving ways creates. Every little bit helps. Thank you, neighbor.